Hi, this week we take a quick look at a few tips to help keep you safe out there, especially as the weather is becoming colder, the days are getting shorter and visibility is generally worse in winter.
1. Always assume that other road users have failed to see you. Ride defensively and assume that your bike is totally invisible. Motorcycle Safety depends on you.
2. Leave plenty of space in front, behind and to the sides of all other vehicles. Be an island. This gives you more visibility and more time to react to situations.
3. Anticipate potentially dangerous situations and know what to do when you see them. Observe what other vehicles are doing and try to predict the next manoeuvre they are likely to make.
4. Beware of oncoming motorists turning right in front of you and pulling out of junctions. This is the leading cause of motorcycle accidents. If you only remember one tip here, let it be this one. Slow down before you approach a junction. Position your bike so it can be seen more easily. Eye contact alone is simply not enough.
5. Don't try to keep up with your friends who may be more experienced. Know your personal limits. Ride your own ride.
6. Beware of taking bends too fast that you can't see around properly. A parked car or gravel or diesel patch may be waiting for you.
7. Do not give in to road rage and try to 'get even' with another rider or motorist. It's better to calm down, slow down, and collect your thoughts. Then continue on and enjoy the ride. That's what we're all out there for in the first place.
8. If someone is tailgating you, either speed up to open more space or pull over and let them pass. Life is too short. Remember that a bike can stop faster than a car so you don't want a lorry on your tail when you find yourself trying to brake to avoid a hazard. Also, don't tailgate the vehicle in front of you. Oncoming drivers can't see you properly.
9. Beware of riding your motorcycle into the sun. Some helmets have visors to block the sun. But sometimes you just find yourself blinded by the light. Expect it, anticipate it, slow down for it.
10. It goes without saying that you shouldn't drink and ride.
Always wear protective clothing and a helmet.
Keep your bike maintained so it is safe to ride. You don't want an equipment malfunction to contribute to a motorcycle accident.
Thanks for reading.
